Side effects of weight loss drugs

In clinical trials, this was one of the most common side effects of Wegovy for weight loss. It also affected Mounjaro patients, although it was less common with Mounjaro.

Nausea often goes away as you continue using the drug. In the meantime, you might want to try these remedies:

• Get plenty of fresh air.
• Drink ginger or peppermint tea.
• Eat smaller meals more frequently.
• Sip cold water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.

In clinical trials, about 30% of Wegovy patients reported diarrhoea as a side effect. It also affected Mounjaro patients, though it was less frequent with Mounjaro. Many cases were mild and got better over time.

You can help reduce the severity of diarrhoea by adjusting your diet.

• Drink plenty of liquids, including water or juice.
• Avoid foods that can make your diarrhoea worse, including spicy or fatty foods.
• Avoid foods and drinks with caffeine (such as coffee).
• Stick to light, bland foods.

Constipation is a fairly common side effect of weight loss drugs. It was experienced by around 23% of Wegovy patients and about 15% of Mounjaro patients in clinical trials.

Constipation is usually mild and doesn't stick around for long.

Here are some simple remedies to try if you experience constipation:

• Drink more fluids: aim for 6 to 8 glasses per day.
• Add fibre to your diet. Good sources of fibre include whole grains, nuts and seeds.
• Increase physical activity, where possible.
• Establish a regular bathroom routine. Don't delay your urge to use the toilet.

Vomiting was also reported as a Wegovy and Mounjaro side effect. This tends to occur when you move to a higher dose. It can also occur when patients eat too much and too quickly, even though they don't have a big appetite.

Here are a few helpful tips to manage vomiting:

• Eat foods with a high water content, such as cucumbers and soups.
• Reduce portion sizes and eat smaller meals more often. Overeating is a common cause of vomiting when taking weight loss injections.
• Try to eat more slowly.
• Don't eat for the sake of eating. However, you should make sure you eat at least 2 small meals every day.
• Sip cold drinks regularly.
• Eat light, bland foods.

Headaches are a moderately common side effect of taking Wegovy for weight loss, affecting around 15% of patients in clinical trials. In Mounjaro trials, about 7% of patients reported headaches.

Headaches are usually mild. You can manage them with these home remedies:

• Place a hot or cold compress on your forehead.
• Take basic painkillers like paracetamol. Avoid painkillers with anti-inflammatory properties, such as ibuprofen and Voltarol.
• Get plenty of rest in a dark, quiet room.
• If you feel dizzy, lie down until the dizziness passes.
• Avoid coffee, smoking and alcohol.

Indigestion and heartburn are moderately common side effects of weight loss injections.

To help manage heartburn (acid reflux), try these remedies:

• Adjust your sleeping position by raising your pillow or the head of your bed.
• Avoid late meals and eating right before you go to bed.
• Identify trigger foods that make heartburn worse for you (these might include spicy foods, wine or onions, for example).
• Avoid smoking.